The Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild would like to invite you to celebrate our 14th Annual Conference to held at the newly remodeled Miami Downtown Hilton May 18 - 20, 2011.

Conference attendance is open to members and non-members of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild, Inc. The registration fee includes attendance to all classes, demonstrations and workshops, participation in door prizes, drawings and prize awards and optional participation in the Soapers Showcase. Meals and snacks are provided as part of the conference fee.

On-site sign-in starts on the evening of Tuesday, May 17th and continues on the morning of Wednesday, May 18th. Conference classes and activities run all day Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, culminating in the Annual Awards Dinner on Friday evening.

Registration Back to Top

The HSMG 2011 Annual Conference is open to members and non-members of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild. Members are entitled to a discount on the Conference Registration fee (see below for pricing details).

What Comes With Your Registration?

Every registration includes:

• Access to all Speaker topics and sessions including the Experts Panel.
• Access to all special events, parties and networking events.
• All conference meals and breaks.
• Registration pack to be mailed in March 2011.
• Conference attendee pack.
• All HSMG gifts and goodies
• Industry goodie bag
• All sponsored gifts and goodies
• Access to the Exhibitor room
• Entry to the Awards Dinner on May 20, 2011
• Entry into at least one Raffle
• Lots of networking time with other soapmakers and industry experts
• Tons of fun and information!

Registration does NOT include:

• Guestrooms at the Miami Downtown Hilton. (Attendees ARE entitled to a discounted room rate; see the Conference Hotel page for more details.)
• Ground transportation to and from the hotel.
• Any meals outside of those outlined in the conference schedule.

Registration Fees and Deadlines

Expires	Rate Class	Member	Non-Member
(already expired)	Early-Early Bird	$429.00	$549.00
Feb 28, 2011	Early Bird	$469.00	$589.00
May 18, 2011 *	Full Rate	$509.00	$629.00

* Registration at the full rate will be available until the conference starts on May 18th, unless the conference reaches capacity and is sold out before then.

Guests

If you want to bring a guest with you to Miami who won't be attending the conference but wants to join you for meals, you can purchase a guest meal ticket. The cost is $295.00 and covers all meals and the Awards Dinner and any special parties. Purchase Guest Meal Ticket ».

Cancellation Policy

Fully paid registrations canceled before January 31, 2011 will receive a refund of 75% of the conference fee. Cancellations received between February 1 and February 28, 2011 will receive a refund of 50% of the conference fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations received after February 28, 2011.

Paid registrants that are on an installment plan will receive a refund in accordance with the above dates for the amount that they have paid on the cancellation date minus a $50 service fee. Cancellations must be made in writing either via email or regular mail to: conference@soapguild.org.

Hotel & Transportation Back to Top

The Handcrafted Soapmaker's Guild 2011 Annual Conference will be held at the Miami Downtown Hilton in downtown Miami, Florida. They have just completed a multi-million dollar renovation of all 527 guestrooms including 58 suites that overlook Biscayne Bay and the downtown skyline. In addition to new bathrooms, the new guestrooms feature the exclusive Hilton Serenity Bed and Bath Collection®. Guests can also enjoy the rooftop pool with views of Miami, complimentary use of the business center and exercising in the new Fitness by Precor® exercise facility.

The Miami Downtown Hilton has the easiest access to all points downtown. It is is connected to the Metro Mover, a complimentary light rail service that takes guests to several restaurants and shopping areas downtown, including Bayside Marketplace and is a mere ten minutes from the most amazing world-class beaches.

Special Room Rates for Attendees

The HSMG has secured a special discounted rate of $139 per night for all registered conference attendees and the hotel has set up a special online registration site, making it very easy to book rooms for the conference. Attendees signing up through the on-line form will automatically get the discounted rate, which may also be applied to days before and after the conference for those wishing to take extra time in Miami.

Please note: The special rate will be available until April 14th or until our block of rooms is sold-out, whichever comes first. Given the low room rates, it is likely that the room block will sell out.

Transportation Back to Top

Miami is served by three airports, all of which are within reasonable distance of the Miami Downtown Hilton. Although the Miami International Hotel is closest, information for the two other nearby airports is included here in case flights to those airports turn out to be more suited for an attendee's travel plans.

Miami International Airport

The Miami International Airport is located about 15 minutes and 5 miles from the hotel. Typical charges to and from the hotel:

• Limousine - $175 each way
• SuperShuttle - $15 each way (see below)
• Taxi - $25 each way

Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport

The Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport is located about 40 minutes and 24 miles from the hotel. Typical charges to and from the hotel:

• Limousine - $250 each way
• Taxi - $65 each way

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Palm Beach International International Airport

The Palm Beach International Airport is located about 70 minutes and 61 miles from the hotel. Typical charges to and from the hotel:

• Limousine - $300 each way
• Taxi - $90 each way

SuperShuttle

SuperShuttle service is available from the Miami Airport. This is a shared-ride van service and may make multiple stops to and from the airport.

To take the SuperShuttle from the Miami Airport, claim your luggage on the lower level and proceed outside to the curb. Contact their Guest Service Representative wearing a gold shirt or a blue jacket that says "SuperShuttle" and they will assist you with your transportation needs. To make an advance reservation, or for more information, call SuperShuttle Miami at (305) 871-2000.

Parking

The Miami Downtown Hilton has valet parking, which is $28/day for guests, including in and out privileges. The hotel recommends that guests valet park their cars.

Car Rental

All major car rental services are available at the airports. In addition, there is an Enterprise Rental Car located not too far from the hotel 1717 North Bayshore Drive, Suite 120 Miami, FL. Their phone number is (305) 573-7745.

2011 Conference Schedule

The Handcrafted Soapmakers 2010 Conference will be in session from May 18 through May 20, with early registration on the evening of May 17.

Please note the schedule is subject to change.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011
10:00 am - 2:00 pm	Marie Gale - Product Labeling Jeff Many - Understanding Quickbooks for Profits Debbie May - Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Melt and Pour
4:00 - 7:00 pm	Registration - Vendors Open
6:00 - 7:00 pm	Certification Testing
7:00 - 8:30 pm	VIP Reception
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
7:15 - 8:15 am	Registration Breakfast - Vendors Open
8:15 - 8:45 am	Welcome and Orientation
8:45 - 10:30 am	Keynote Speaker - Barbara Corcoran
10:30 - 11:00 am	Break - Snack - Vendors Open
11:00 am - 12:00 pm	Debbie May - Customer Service
12:00 - 2:00 pm	Networking Lunch
2:00 - 3:00 pm	Larry Plesent - Organic Certification: What is it, What Does it Cost and Do I Need it?
3:00 - 3:30 pm	Break - Snack - Vendors Open
3:30 - 4:30 pm	Alicia Grosso - A Survey of Colorant Use in Soapmaking - Intermediate Level Kathryn Hackney Advanced CP Swirling Kayla Fioravanti
4:30 - 4:45 pm	Break - Vendors Open
4:45 - 5:45 pm	Alicia Grosso - Advanced Topics in Color in Soapmaking Kathryn Hackney Advanced CP Swirling Kayla Fioravanti
7:00 - ???	Wholesale Supplies Plus Special Event
Thursday, May 19, 2011
7:00 - 8:00 am	Certification Testing
7:30 - 8:30 am	Breakfast & Morning Announcements - Vendors Open
8:30 - 10:00 am	Robert Tisserand - Essential Oils; The Good, The Bad or The Ugly
10:00 - 10:30 am	Break - Snack - Vendors Open
10:30 am - 12:00 noon	Susan C. Kaymon - Mobile eCommerce
12:00 - 1:00 pm	Non-Member Lunch
12:00 - 2:30 pm	Lunch & Annual Meeting
3:30 - 4:30 pm	Daryle Stafford - Understanding Your Product Liability Insurance Jen Welch - How to Copy a Product Marla Bosworth - Successful and Profitable Wholesaling
4:30 - 4:45 pm	Break - Raffle Drawings - Vendors Open
4:45 - 5:45 pm	Tina Howard - Zen Marketing: Promoting Your Brand While Calming Your Nerves Jen Welch - How to Copy a Product Marla Bosworth - Successful and Profitable Wholesaling
6:00 - 7:00 pm	Break- Vendors Open
7:00 - ???	Essential Wholesale Special Event
Friday, May 20, 2011
7:00 - 8:00 am	Breakfast - Morning Announcements - Vendors Open
8:00 - 9:30 am	Expert's Panel
9:30 - 10:00 am	Break - Snack - Vendors Open
10:00 - 11:30 am	Kevin Dunn - The Secret Life of Soap Marla Bosworth - Wild Child Soapmaking: Combining MP and CP Methods
11:30 am - 1:00 pm	Lunch On My Own
1:00 - 2:30 pm	Larry Plesent - Manufacturing vs. Batchmaking, Lessons in Efficiency and Production Joan Morais - Natural Lotion and Cream Making Part 1 Bryan Mazzarello - Packaging
2:30 - 3:30 pm	Break - Snack - Finish with Vendors
3:30 - 5:00 pm	Larry Plesent - Manufacturing vs. Batchmaking, Lessons in Efficiency and Production Joan Morais - Natural Lotion and Cream Making Part 2 Bryan Mazzarello - Packaging
5:00 - 6:00 pm	Break
6:00 - 6:30 pm	Cocktail "Hour"
6:30 - 8:30 pm	Awards Dinner

Speakers   (Listed in Alphabetical Order after the Keynote) Back to Top

Barbara Corcoran   Keynote Speaker

• Founder, The Corcoran Group
• Chairman of Barbara Corcoran Inc.
• Bestselling author of If You Don't Have Big Breasts, Put Ribbons in Your Pigtails

Barbara Corcoran Inc. was founded by real estate entrepreneur Barbara Corcoran in 2005 as the latest endeavor in her highprofile, multi-faceted, and highly successful career. This multimedia company blends Barbara's real estate expertise and her growing media presence in a one-of-a-kind package that taps Barbara's many talents.

As founder of The Corcoran Group, Barbara used her ingenuity, quick wits, and solid instincts to turn a $1,000 loan into a multibillion dollar business. In the 28 years Barbara ran the company, she honed her skills in marketing, negotiating, innovating, and surviving in the lean times and thriving in the good times -- everything you need to know to establish, run, and grow a business. Then, in 2001, Barbara sold the company for over $70 million.

Barbara next put her entrepreneurial knowledge down on paper, penning the best selling, unconventional business book, If You Don't Have Big Breasts, Put Ribbons on Your Pigtails. The book is aptly sub-titled "And Other Business Lessons I Learned From My Mom". Barbara credits her mom's good sense and positive vision for giving her the tools she needed to succeed so fabulously in the notoriously cutthroat world of New York real estate. Her second book, Nextville: Amazing Places to Live the Rest of Your Life, is fast on its way to becoming her second best seller.

As a much-in-demand motivational speaker, and now a best-selling author, Barbara has successfully transitioned from her role as head of The Corcoran Group to that of popular television personality. Today Barbara is the real estate contributor to NBC's TODAY Show and a "shark" on the ABC reality show Shark Tank. She can also be seen on HGTV's Top Ten and LXTV's Price Fix. In addition, Barbara is a regular columnist for the New York Daily News and MORE Magazine.

Marla Bosworth

Marla Bosworth is founder of Back Porch Soap Company, retailer and wholesaler of handmade, sea-inspired bath and body products. She has more than 20 years experience in marketing, market research and manufacturing consulting as a Market Research Analyst for Fortune 100 companies. Sharing her experience, Marla teaches hands-on bath and beauty workshops to students worldwide and coaches bath and beauty industry entrepreneurs through product development, retail/wholesale channels, launch and growth stages. Marla provides group and private classes and consulting, industry market research, as well as online courses.

While Marla still considers Jackson Hole, Wyoming her hometown, she currently resides in the Boston, area with her 16 year-old daughter. She enjoys skiing, volleyball, and tennis.

Kevin Dunn

Kevin Dunn is the Elliott Professor of Chemistry at Hampden-Sydney College. His book, Caveman Chemistry, brought him to the attention of handcrafted soapmakers and because of this he has undertaken a series of research projects on the chemnistry of handcrafted soap. This research has culminated in a second book, Scientific Soapmaking, which was published the Spring of 2010.

Professor Dunn has appeared on the Learning Channel's "Mysteries of Magic" and the History Channel's "Modern Marvels". He lives in central Virginia with his wife and several cats.

Kayla Fioravanti

Kayla Fioravanti is the Chief Formulator, Certified & ARC Registered Aromatherapist for Essential Wholesale and its lab division Essential Labs. Wife and mother of three, Kayla runs her company along with her husband Dennis. In 1998, Kayla started creating products in her kitchen using essential oils. In 2000 they started an aromatherapy based Home Party Plan with all natural products that their company made before converting their venture into a distribution company, Essential Wholesale in 2002 and later adding the lab division, Essential Labs in 2005.

Kayla is passionate about sharing her knowledge of aromatherapy, crafting, business and formulating. Kayla is the go-to-specialist for formulating and supplying information on aromatherapy, natural, organic and pure cosmetics and personal care items. She formulates thousands of products including: mineral make up, skin care, body care and products for bath, body, spa, hair, baby, aroma and so much more. Through her lab division Essential Labs, Kayla formulates private label products for customers big and small from around the world.

Kayla's articles can be found in hundreds of publications including Dermascope Magazine, Les Nouvelles Esthetique, New York Metro Parent, Saponifier, National Association of Holistic Aromatherapists and Essential Wholesale’s educational arm Essential U blog. Kayla has been a guest on Millionaire Moms Radio, Organic Beauty Radio, Indie Radio, KPDQ Northwest Showcase, Good Day Oregon, 104.1 The Fish and Podcast From the Heart.

Kayla is the driving force behind the Essential U blog, an educational center for aromatherapy, cosmetics, industry standards and business ownership. What matters most to Kayla Fioravanti is teaching others about the wonders of natural and holistic living.

Marie Gale

Marie Gale is a soapmaker and writer and has been a supporter of the handcrafted soap industry for over a decade.

Marie wrote and published Soap and Cosmetic Labeling: How to Follow the Rules and Regs Explained in Plain English, which has become a standard for the handcrafted soap and cosmetics She feels strongly that the best method of ensuring continued self-regulation within the industry is encouraging compliance with existing requlations so additional governmental intervention and regulation never become necessary.

A member of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild, Inc. since 1999, Marie served as President of the HSMG (2004 - 2009) and continues to serve on several committees. She also serves as Webmaster.

Marie currently lives on her family ranch in Southwestern Oregon with the man in her life and has the great fortune to be able to stay connected to and interact with the world via wireless high-speed internet.

Alicia Grosso

Alicia Grosso is the founder and creative director of the Annabella and Company Creativity Collective. She is the author of Soapmaking: A Magical Guide and The Everything Soapmaking Book. Alicia started making soap in 1995 and presented at the HMSG Conferences in both Arizona and Vermont. She has also taught workshops at Otion and The Nova Studio, and given countless private and small group lessons in her studio.

A native of the Pacific Northwest, Alicia lives in Los Angeles with three kitties and a bunny.

Kathryn Hackney

Kathryn Hackney is an expert soapmaker hailing from the Pacific Northwest. As part of the Bramble Berry retail team in Washington State, she is the assistant manager and lead instructor at Otion: The Soap Bar. She writes and photographs the tutorials and articles for the Soap King Blog and has made over 300 batches of cold process soap. She specializes in swirling techniques that create art from craft and teaches soapmaking multiple times a week. Color and design are perfect methods for expressing individuality through your products, and Kathryn is excited to show you just how easy it is at her Advanced Swirling Cold Process Soap Class. Kathryn has a fine art degree in painting and art history and has artwork nationwide.

Tina Howard

Tina Howard is the founder and owner of Majestic Mountain Sage, a full service supplier of raw materials to the handcrafted soap and cosmetics industry. Tina began talking to others about Soapmaking online in 1994. By 1996, she had started MMS and worked with her husband to create the first online Lye Calculator. Over the past 16 years, Tina has spent hundreds of hours teaching and helping people solve problems.

Her insatiable desire for knowledge has led her into many projects. As Tina has always found herself to be driven by the idea of being self reliant, she can often be found involved in projects that allow her to express this self reliance. This drive has encouraged Tina to learn about cheesemaking, spinning, knitting, gardening, farming, beekeeping, food preservation, and more.

Tina lives with her husband Dirk and her daughters in Northen Utah. They have their own collection of animals that includes chickens, goats, dogs and cats. When not at work, Tina can often be found reading books or writing letters to family, friends and soldiers.

Susan C. Kaymon

Susan Kaymon is co-founder of OakMobi, a mobile marketing services company based on award-winning cloud mobile marketing software for Text Message Marketing, Appointment Reminder Workstations and Text to Pay. Additionally, OakMobi provides services for mobile marketing campaign development and management. Susan is also co-founder of Interactive Recreation Information Systems, a Geographic Information System/Global Positioning System data collection and mapping company focused on developing maps for use on web sites, mobile applications and map books.

In addition to developing and publishing interactive maps on www.trailguide411.com, Susan has published The Original Ultimate Trail Guide, an interactive trail-routing software application, The San Francisco Trail Collection: East Bay Volume I Map Book and Off-the-Beat’n Path Screensaver featuring photographs from the trails of the San Francisco Bay Area. She is currently working on developing mobile trail map applications for the San Francisco Bay Area.

Susan has years of experience working in the Tech and Aerospace/Defense sectors including VP of Operations for IKON Business Imaging, Director of Operations for Coastcom, a telecom equipment company, and Program Director at Aerojet. Susan holds an Advanced Executive MBA from Claremont Graduate University’s Peter F. Drucker and Masatoshi Ito Graduate School of Management, a Masters of Business Administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Syracuse University’s LC Smith College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Rick Limardo

Mr. Limardo began his career on Capitol Hill in 2001, serving seven years in the office of Congressman Ralph Regula (OH). Most recently, he served as Legislative Director to Congressman Regula, a senior Member of the House Appropriations Committee. In that capacity, Mr. Limardo worked with the legislative staff to coordinate all policy initiatives and project requests for the Congressman. Mr. Limardo previously worked as a Program Instructor for The Close Up Foundation, a nonpartisan citizenship education organization, and was active in federal campaigns and various voting efforts throughout Ohio.

Jeff Many

Jeff Many is a Certified Public Accountant in private practice in Saratoga Springs, NY. He has extensive business tax experience having worked for local and regional firms in the capital district region in Upstate New York. Mr. Many established his own firm in 1988. He specializes in small business accounting and taxation issues and has been a user of QuickBooks for many years.

Mr. Many is a graduate of Syracuse University with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Accounting. He also holds insurance and securities licenses. He is active in his community through serving on various boards with such organizations as the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Regional YMCA and other community service organizations and is an avid golfer and runner.

Debbie May

Debbie May began making and selling soap in 1996 to help support her growing family. At the time, she and her husband Dave had two children (one child requiring full time disabled care). From her home, Debbie cared for the children, refined her craft, and eventually grew a successful finished soap business named May Showers. Her products sold coast-to-coast in retail stores, craft shows, home parties, and fundraisers.

While other crafters had trouble selling their products, Debbie enjoyed success and consistently left craft shows with empty boxes. As more and more crafters sought her soap making advice, Debbie started a new company in 1997 named Soap Supplies Plus from which Wholesale Supplies Plus emerged two years later.

Wholesale Supplies Plus, Inc. is a privately held corporation with Debbie and Dave May the sole shareholders. Debbie is the President and CEO with the responsibilities of Corporate Vision, Contractual Partnerships, Product Development, Marketing and Customer Service. Dave is the Vice President with the responsibilities of Human Resources, Benefits, Accounting and Warehouse Operations.

Although the company has grown, Debbie and Dave May remain the sole shareholders. They still support an enthusiastic motto: "Your Success Is Our Business". Debbie's personal belief that it is her job to "Work Hard for Your Success" because it is only through the success of customers that she can obtain personal success.

Bryan Mazzarello

Bryan Mazzarello is the creative director at Mazzarello Media and Arts, a husband and wife graphic design studio. As a graphic designer, Bryan specializes in identity packages and web design for small business and non-profits.

Prior to running his own design studio, Bryan worked eight years as an award winning, in-house graphic designer. He was the art director at an eco-luxury brand, Organic Bouquet, creating e-commerce websites, directing product photo shoots, and developing package design. The San Francisco Chronicle referred to Bryan’s package design for Organic Bouquet as "artfully boxed". Bryan has designed for top brands such as Rodale Press, Harry and David, Network for Good, Gardener’s Supply Company, the Oakland Athletics, and Intel Labs Berkeley.

Bryan received a B.S. in Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design from Biola University. Bryan and his wife Stephanie work and live in Oakland, California with their 17 pound cat, Baz.

Joan Morais

Joan Morais is a natural and organic, body, hair, and skin care instructor and formulator. She teaches courses on making natural products and conducts online study classes at Joan Morais Naturals.

Joan has assisted thousands in learning the art and science of making natural products and has taught at top spas and companies. Joan teaches and consults with people from all over the world. She works with a cosmetic chemist and has formulated for estheticians, cosmetologists, spas, make-up artists, and individual’s product lines. Joan is a Certified Aromatherapist. She started her own publishing company in 2003 and is the author of many "how to" books including How to Make Natural Lotions and Creams.

Larry Plesent

Larry Plesent is a writer, philosopher and soapmaker living and working in the Green Mountains of Vermont and is the owner of Vermont Soap. Vermont Soap was the third certified processor in US for topical products (2003) and the maker of the first USDA Pet Shampoo, Shower GEL, Foam Soap, Spray Cleaner, Nontoxic Cleaner Concentrate, Shampoo Bar. Larry has helped to shepherd over 100 different labels through USDA. He worked with the OTA PCTFC writing the rules and is a founding member Green Products Alliance lobbying the rules.

Daryle Stafford

AOriginally from Richmond Virginia, Daryle now resides in Salt Lake City, UT acting as Vice President of the Brokerage division for Stratus Insurance Services, Inc. A graduate of Shenandoah University, with a BS degree in Sociology, Daryle is entering his tenth year in the insurance industry. He has been instrumental in the development and implementation of several programs that provide products liability insurance to the health and beauty trades. Stratus partnered with the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild and the Indie Beauty Network to create a cost effective liability insurance program for their members, these programs were successfully launched in 2006. Daryle continues to oversee the daily operations of both these programs

Robert Tisserand

Robert Tisserand is an international speaker, educator and consultant. In 2010, he delivered presentations in San Diego, Denver, Sarasota, Minneapolis, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Taipei and Tokyo. He has been instrumental in bringing widespread professional and public recognition to aromatherapy. During his 15 years as a massage therapist, he wrote one of the first books on aromatherapy in 1977. The Art of Aromatherapy is now published in twelve languages. In 1974 he established The Aromatic Oil Company (a predecessor of Tisserand Aromatherapy) and in 1988 he founded The Tisserand Institute, setting new standards for vocational aromatherapy education. Also in 1988, he launched The International Journal of Aromatherapy, which he published and edited for 12 years..

Robert tracks all the published research relevant to essential oils and collaborates with doctors, herbalists and pharmacologists, integrating scientific data with traditional medicine and holistic principles. He is familiar with the foundations of oriental medicine, and Western herbal and naturopathic traditions, with their emphasis on cleansing, protecting, strengthening immune function and aiding natural healing processes. Robert also has 40 years of experience in essential oil blending and aromatherapy product development, and has an expert knowledge of essential oil safety.

Robert is on the International Advisory Board of Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, and is a member of the Natural Perfumers Guild. In recognition of his pioneering work, he has been awarded Honorary Lifetime Membership of the International Federation of Aromatherapists, the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists, and the Alliance of International Aromatherapists. He was privileged to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the AIA in Denver in 2007, and is the current chair of the AIA Research Committee.

Mary Anne Walsh

Mary Anne Walsh

Ms. Walsh has been in government service since 1979 and has held a variety of positions, including Chief of Staff for three U.S. Congressmen. As such, she functioned as the senior policy advisor to the Member of Congress on all legislative, appropriations initiatives and constituent advocacy services. She provided oversight and direction to the full-time professional staff in Washington and the District offices of the Member.

Jen Welch

Jenny Welch started making goat-milk soaps from the milk produced by her herd of Nubian dairy goats while living in rural north Texas in the late 1990’s. Rediscovering a childhood fascination with chemistry, Jenny began experimenting with the milk, formulating lotions and other bath products that quickly became popular across the area. Caprabella (‘beautiful goat’ in Italian), her goat-milk soap and lotion brand, achieved wide recognition as she became more proficient with an ever-increasing range of product formulations.

In 2001 Jenny and her family pulled up stakes and moved, goats and all, to a small island in the far northwestern corner of Washington State where her husband had grown up. Settling on a small farm on Orcas Island, Jenny continued making and selling her products and also branched out into offering specialty ingredients to other formulators. As her interest in this endeavor grew, so did her product lines. Recognizing that her business had grown beyond the scope of Caprabella, Jenny formed Lotioncrafter.com in 2004.

Now a web-based Internet business selling a wide range of products to artisans and formulators worldwide, Lotioncrafter.com continues a path of remarkable growth. As sales continue to achieve double-digit growth each year, she remains focused on distributing high-quality products reflective of her personal commitment to excellence.

Presentation Topic Summaries

How to Successfully Wholesale
Marla Bosworth

Come learn what would make a retailer fall in love with your product line! You'll get the inside scoop on important "to do's" (and "what not to do's") when approaching store buyers. Marla will share her years of experience as a retail store owner and what made her purchase product lines. You'll come away from this session knowing how to confidently and successfully approach retailers. We’ll cover effective sell sheets, terms and conditions, and proven ways to boost average open orders and reorders. We'll also discuss retail displays, UPC codes, wholesale trade shows and more!

Wild Child Soapmaking: Combining MP & CP Methods
Marla Bosworth

You may be a CP or MP purist - never crossing the lines between the two. But what if you did? Marla will show you how to create stunning and dazzling effects with a "new" method of soapmaking. If you've never tried combining MP and CP, then you're in for a real treat! It's a new twist on two old favorites. This fun session will cover tips and tricks on layers, swirls and embeds as well as batch size calculations. If you're looking to add a new product to your line or just put some pizzazz back into your soapmaking, then you'll find inspiration here!

The Secret Life Of Soap
Kevin Dunn

Professor Dunn and his students have explored a variety of technical and scientific problems related to the production of handcrafted soap. This year they will be looking at the emulsification of raw soap, following it from an oil/lye mixture, through trace and solidification, to the final production of soap crystals in the finished product. They will be exploring this through the use of polarized light microscopy, which is able to visualize oil/lye droplets early in the life of the soap, and soap crystals once saponification is complete.

In addition, they will also be looking at a variety of soap defects commonly referred to as "soda ash" and "partial gel" to elucidate their causes and cures.

How to Make MP Soap from Scratch, Part 1
Kayla Fioravanti

Kayla will demonstrate recipes from her new book, How to Make Melt & Pour Soap Base from Scratch, A Beginner's Guide to Melt & Pour Soap Base Manufacturing. During this demo you will learn the formula and methodology to create your own M&P Soap base. We will learn the basic techniques that will enable you to create your own M&P Soap base in any size batches your company needs.

How to Make MP Soap from Scratch, Part 2
Kayla Fioravanti

In the final phase of our Melt & Pour Soap base demonstration, we will see how the basic formula from part 1 turns out and demonstrate alterations to the formula. The session wil also cover troubleshooting and more.

A Survey of Colorant Use in Soapmaking - Intermediate Level
Alicia Grosso

NOTE: This class requires a strong background in soapmaking procedures. We begin with a review of the essentials of color theory, including challenges specific to soapmaking, such as the "problem with purple" and color morphing. We’ll cover a wide range of color materials commonly used in soapmaking, from Botanicals to Lab Colors, from Gel Colors to glitter. There will be time at the end of the class for questions and answers. You'll be provided with supporting materials.

Color in Soapmaking - Advanced Level
Alicia Grosso

NOTE: This class requires background knowledge of soapmaking, color theory, and colorant materials. Using what you know about colorants and the techniques of using them in soapmaking, we'll expand your knowledge into the realm of color as a design element. Starting with some basics of design, you'll learn to understand your relationship to color and how to extend it to your soap and in supporting materials. Additionally, you'll learn how to turn the limitations of certain colorants to your advantage. There will be time at the end of the class for questions and answers. You’ll be provided with supporting materials.

Advance CP Swirling
Kathryn Hackney

NOTE: This class requires an understanding of Cold Process Soapmaking.

Take your soap bars from boring to beautiful with eye-catching swirls! In this cold process presentation, Kathryn demonstrates in-the-pot and linear swirling techniques using multiple colors, a five pound wood log mold and the popular 18 bar Baltic Birch mold. With step-by-step guidance and inspiration you can add a fun and rewarding step to your soap process, while personalizing your product.

Zen Marketing: Promote Your Brand While Calming Your Nerves
Tina Howard

You've got soap to make, orders to ship, an appointment with your vet, the school play, soccer practice and dinner to make. That's JUST your schedule between 3 and 6 pm. Zen Marketing is all about how to promote your brand while calming your nerves. Learn how to do Public Relations in 1 hour each week that will help build a marketing team that works 24/7. Bring with you an updated address book and be prepared to supercharge your marketing team while finding a calm and spiritual connection with your customers, friends and family.

The Mobile Revolution
Susan C. Kaymon

G2, G3, G4, Gx, broadband, bluetooth, wi-fi, hotspots; tablet, netbooks, laptops; smartphone, flip phone; Android, Droid, Blackberry, iPhone, Windows CE, Symbian; card swipes, virtual terminals, squares, payment gateways; QR codes, coupons, SMS, MMS; mobile apps, clouds...

What is all of this stuff?

Mobile technology: hardware and software; is changing our lives, changing the way we find products, changing the way we pay for products, and changing the way we play and stay in touch. These emerging technologies have tremendous implications on your business. RU ready?

The bottom line for your business is what technology can provide mobile connectivity for payment processing, business management and marketing? How do you decide what will work for you? This session will give you the tools to decide what technology is right for you and how to evaluate its effectiveness.

Growing Your Business Through Excellent Customer Service
Debbie May

As a business owner, it is likely that you have the goal to win, maintain and/or grow your customer base. Good customer service and outstanding products are the two biggest keys to success. This presentation will focus on they key of good customer service. Attendees will walk away with the following knowledge.

Why Customer Service Matters

• Why Customer Service Matters
• Customer Service Communication Skills
• Customer Service Problem Solving
• How Customer Service Can Grow Your Business

Identity Design and Packaging
Bryan Mazzarello

Bryan Mazzarello, Creative Director at Mazzarello Media and Arts, shares his knowledge of identity design and packaging. He’ll address how your design could make or break your brand. Explore case studies of successful design and learn why there’s a need to design holistically. Bryan will give you insight into the design process and show how the collaboration between design thinking and business strategy can create a successful brand.

Natural Lotion and Cream Making - Part 1
Joan Morais

Joan Morais shares her secrets to creating natural lotions and creams. She includes tips on formulating, preserving, and making successful emulsions. You also learn techniques on how to professionally package and label your lotions and creams.

Natural Lotion and Cream Making - Part 2
Joan Morais

Joan Morais demonstrates a "challenge tested" body lotion formulation from start to finish in this extensive Part 2 class. Find out how to manufacture products using cGMP and test your lotion and cream for bacteria, yeast, and mold. You leave this class with the confidence and knowledge to make your own professional lotions and creams.

Organic Certification of your Operation
Larry Plesent

What are the cost v benefits of USDA Organic Certification? How are hard is it? What are the paperwork requirements? Can I charge more for my products? Larry Plesent of Vermont Soap (certified processor since 2003) weighs in on the pluses and minuses of organic certification.

Manufacturing vs. Batchmaking
Larry Plesent

If you are asking yourself "what's the difference?" you definitely need to attend! Learn about "Economy of Scale" and how it impacts your operation.

Understanding Your Product Liability Insurance
Daryle Stafford

You have purchased your insurance but you may not be aware of what it covers and how to use it to your advantage. This is the session to get your insurance questions answered. In this day and age of lawsuits and pending regulations insurance is a very important element of managing your risk. Please come with all of your insurance questions, Daryle is prepared to answer them all.

Topics covered:

• Insurance 101
• What are some of the most common exposures handcrafters face
• Does my Homeowners policy cover my business
• What is covered/excluded under the HSMG insurance program
• What is Inland Marine coverage
• What is an additional insured
• How can I protect both my business and personal assets from potential insurance claims

Understand & Address the Legislative Issues Affecting our Industry
Mary Anne Walsh and Rick Limardo

Meet the HSMG's DC Advocates, Mary Anne Walsh and Rick Limardo! They will give us an overview on the legislative issues that affect all of our businesses, and teach us how to effectively lobby and interact with our local politicians on behalf of the handcrafted soap industry.

Mary Anne and Rick will be staying for the entire conference so you will be able to ask them any questions you may have about the political process and how to get involved. Be sure to share your concerns about impeding legislation in your area.

How to Copy a Product
Jen Welch

Whether driven by curiosity, or a need to duplicate a product because your new account wants you to improve upon something they're already using, understanding how to duplicate an existing product is a necessity for the cosmetic formulator. This seminar will take you through the process, from understanding the formula you are trying to duplicate, analyzing and researching the ingredients used, exploring patents, determining water content and percentages, creating initial test batches, through to final formulation. We'll cover stability testing and microbiological testing, as well as potential consumer testing. Finally, we'll discuss the benefits of "try-it" chemistry. You’ll be provided with the educational tools and resources on USB drive to enable you to repeat the process on your own.

Special Seminars Back to Top

New in 2011, three special half-day seminars have been added to the schedule. These seminars are optional, and in addition to the regular conference content.

The three different seminars will run concurrently (which means you'll have to pick just one).

Price

The price for each seminar is $79. That includes coffee/tea service in the morning and lunch.

Limited to 25 attendees

These half-day seminars are intended to provide an opportunity for a in-depth look at each subject, with plenty of time for individual attention and Q & A. Each seminar will be limited to 25 attendees, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Schedule

The optional seminars will be held in the morning and early afternoon on May 17th, and will be completed before registration that evening (the Conference starts on the morning of May 18th).

If you plan to attend one of the special seminars, be sure that your arrange your transportation so you will be ready and rested at 10:00 am on the 17th. We recommend arriving at the hotel on the 16th, so you're not rushed and have a chance to settle in. Discounted room rates will still apply for the night of the 16th.

Soapers Showcase Back to Top

Enter your best soaps into the Soapers Showcase at the 2010 Annual Conference in Miami, FL! This is a great opportunity to showcase your soap making efforts in front a record crowd of your soapmaker peers. Each registered conference attendee can submit up to three soaps in 7 categories. In addition, all soaps entered have the chance to win "Best In Show" and take home a fabulous trophy.

Entry forms will be included in your registration packet at the conference and in the conference attendee mailing (which will go out several months before the conference). You can also download the Entry Form to fill out before the conference and have it ready when you arrive.

Here are the guidelines for participating in the Soapers Showcase:

1. Each 2011 HSMG conference attendee may submit up to three soaps in the Soapers Showcase. The categories are:
   • Best Scent M&P
   • Best Appearance M&P
   • Best Packaging M&P
   • Best Scent CP/HP
   • Best Appearance CP/HP
   • Best Packaging CP/HP
   • Something Different M&P/CP/HP
   • Best in Show M&P/CP/HP (all soaps are automatically entered)
2. Registration forms may be (but are not required to be) submitted in advance by mail to:
        Victoria Marsted
        29 Lincoln Ave
        Cortland, NY 13045
3. You must sign up and deliver your soaps to the Soapers Showcase area at the conference by NOON, May 18th. You are responsible for ensuring that your soaps and registration form reach the Soapers Showcase Coordinator at the Conference.
4. Soaps entered into the "Best Appearance" category need to be void of any packaging. That way the voters can see the soap itself.
5. All soaps entered into the Soapers Showcase will be automatically entered into the "Best of Show" category.
6. Each soap entered will be assigned an identification number to ensure voting integrity. The Soapers Showcase Coordinator will determine the numbering process.
7. During the conference, registered attendees will vote to determine the winners in each category. Ballots must be in by 7 PM on Thursday, May 19th. Votes received after that time will not be counted.
8. The voting process is very important. Each attendee will get one ballot in their registration packet. This is the only ballot they will receive. If the ballot is lost, stolen or damaged it cannot be replaced. This is to insure that there will be only one (1) vote per registered attendee.
9. All soaps entered into the Showcase will be donated to a non-profit women's center at the end of the conference. You may bring additional soaps to donate to the organization. If you do not want your soap to be donated, you must make arrangements with the Soapers Showcase Coordinator in advance and pick up your soap by 7pm Friday, May 20th. All soaps left after that will be donated.

If you have any questions or need additional information you can reach Victoria Marsted, Soaper Showcase Coordinator at SoapersShowcase@Soapguild.org

Exhibitor Information Back to Top

You want an opportunity to interact with hundreds of potential customers? Have a chance to have your product and services in front of the right people at the right time who want to buy? Then sign up as an Exhibitor at the HSMG 2011 Annual Conference in Miami, FL! You will the opportunity to meet and talk with individuals who are interested in supporting you as much as you support the HSMG. Sign up today as spots are limited.

This year the schedule allows exhibitors to stay open for the duration of the conference, with very little "closed" time. There are also periods set aside in the schedule for exhibitor networking to allow the attendees ample time to visit the exhibitors exclusively.

The HSMG 2011 Annual Conference is open to members and non-members of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild to be exhibitors. Members are entitled to a discount on the Exhibitor Registration fee.

What Comes With Your Registration?

Every exhibitor registration includes:

• 8 ft table in the exhibitor section, draped, chair and wastebasket
  (Additional tables may be purchased for $95.00 each.
• Access to all Speaker topics and sessions including the Experts Panel.
• Access to all special events, parties and networking events.
• All conference meals and breaks
• Registration pack to be mailed in March 2011
• All HSMG gifts and goodies
• All sponsored gifts and goodies
• Entry to the Awards Dinner on May 20, 2011
• Entry into at least one Raffle
• Opportunity to conduct pre-orders for conference attendees, advertised on the HSMG website and promoted to our membership.
• Company name published as an exhibitor in all conference marketing materials.
• Company listed in the program & registration books.
• Contact list of conference attendees.
• Lots of networking time with soapmakers and industry experts
• Tons of fun and information!

Registration does NOT include:

• Guestrooms at the Miami Downtown Hilton Hotel. (Attendees ARE entitled to a discounted room rate; see the Conference Hotel page for more details.)
• Ground transportation to and from the hotel.
• Any meals outside of those outlined in the conference schedule.

Registration Fees and Deadlines

Expires	Rate Class	Member	Non-Member
Feb 28, 2011	Early Bird	$499.00	$549.00
May 18, 2011 *	Full Rate	$659.00	$699.00

* Registration at the full rate will be available until the conference starts on May 18th, unless the conference reaches capacity and is sold out before then.

Guests

If you want to bring a guest with you to Miami who won't be attending the conference, but wants to join you for meals, you can purchase a guest meal ticket. The cost is $295.00 and covers all meals and the Awards Dinner and any special parties. Purchase Guest Meal Ticket »

Cancellation Policy

Fully paid registrations canceled before January 31, 2011 will receive a refund of 75% of the conference fee. Cancellations received between February 1 - February 28, 2011 will receive a refund of 50% of the conference fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations received after February 28, 2011. Cancellations must be made in writing either via email to conference@soapguild.org or by regular mail to the HSMG office.

2011 Conference Scholarships Back to Top

Stratus Insurance is generously offering two scholarships to the 2011 Annual Conference!

The scholarships will cover Conference registration, 4 nights hotel stay at the Hilton Miami Downtown and $500 in cash for travel and other expenses.

Scholarships are based on need and contributions to the soapmaking community. To apply, applicants must fill out a questionnaire which includes an essay of between 500 and 1000 words explaining why they are in need of this assistance, contributions they have made to the soapmaking community and how it would benefit their business.

Deadline for submitting the application is February 15, 2011.

Administration of the Scholarships

The Scholarship Committee will receive all applications and review them for completeness. Once all applications have been received, they will be forwarded to the Selection Panel, who will make the final decision. The selection panel consists of: Leigh O'Donnell, HSMG President; Daryl Stafford, Stratus Insurance; and Sr. Cathleen Timberlake, HSMG Vice President.

Sponsors and Donors Back to Top

The sponsors, suppliers and companies that contributed to the prize table (raffles and door prizes) and goodie bags are listed on this Conference webpage. Please take some time to visit their websites (by clicking the links) and see what they have to offer and thank them personally for being a part of the Conference this year. It's companies like theirs that help to make the conference such a success!

Marie Gale
www.mariegale.com

Pendergrass, Inc
www.pendergrassinc.com

The Nova Studio
www.thenovastudio.com

Boyer Corporation (Lye Provider)
www.boyercorporation.com

Bramble Berry
www.brambleberry.com

Catania-Spagna Corporation (Specialty Oils)
www.cataniausa.com

Columbus Vegetable Oils / Soapers Choice
www.soaperschoice.com

From Nature With Love
www.fromnaturewithlove.com

Goplanetearth.com
www.goplanetearth.com

Moldmarket.com
www.moldmarket.com

Monterey Bay Spice Company
www.herbco.com

Mountain Rose Herbs
www.mountainroseherbs.com

Natures Garden Candle and Soap Making Supplies
www.naturesgardencandles.com

Qosmedix
www.qosmedix.com

Shay & Company
www.shayandcompany.com

Soapequipment.com
www.soapequipment.com

Stratus Insurance
www.stratusins.com